Crytek opens Istanbul studio

Crytek has expanded its operations by opening a brand new studio in Turkey.

Based in Istanbul, the new office will support the developer’s free-to-play business and focus its attentions on Warface and social network for games GFACE.

The new studio will also oversee the growth of CryEngine through Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa.

Crytek Istanbul will be headed up by Serhat Bekdemir, who has previously served as chapter coordinator for the IGDA in Turkey and as a localisation partner for EA in the region on games such as Crysis 2.

The Turkey office, Crytek’s eighth studio, also marks the return of the company’s founding brothers Avni, Cevat and Faruk Yerli to the country, having all been born there.

“Crytek Istanbul not only opens the door to further growth, it represents reinvestment in a country that has special bonds for us as a company,” said Crytek CEO Cevat Yerli.

“We have had ambitions and aspirations to invest in Turkey for a long time and believe the moment is now right to bring those plans to fruition. From day one, we will work hard to make a positive impact in Turkey and further solidify Crytek’s reputation for quality and innovation.”

Bekdemir added: “Crytek’s decision to establish a permanent base in Turkey underscores the company’s commitment to leading the way into promising new territories. As a growing video game market, Turkey is the perfect place for Crytek to expand its profile and establish bonds with a whole new set of enthusiastic players, developers and business partners.”